The weather can definitely be erratic at this time of year, but long summer days are around the corner and patio dining is the perfect way to make the most them. These 13 New Mexico restaurants vary in terms of atmosphere and cuisine but they all have two things in common: delicious food and charming patios.
1. The Hollar (Madrid)
From this restaurant’s rustic appearance you might not guess that its chef trained at Le Courdon Bleu and specializes in sophisticated Southern cuisine. Relax on the shady patio while you tuck into traditional options such as fried green tomatoes, and dishes topped with creative sauces like lavender béchamel. The Hollar is located at 2849 Highway 14 N in Madrid.
2. St. Clair Winery and Bistro (Las Cruces)
Elegant without being snobby, this restaurant is the place to go if you’re seeking a spectacular wine selection to accompany your meal. In addition to being draped with plants, the patio is also great because you can listen to live musical performances on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights. St. Clair is located at 1720 Avenida de Mesilla in Las Cruces.
3. Pizaños (Taos)
Great views don’t have to come at a high price. Salads, sandwiches and "tunnels," are all affordable fare that you can savor on the back patio of Pizaños, as you soak in stunning mountain views. This Italian restaurant is located at 23 Highway 150 in Taos.
4. Prairie Star Restaurant and Wine Bar (Santa Ana Pueblo)
The views from this patio are simply breathtaking. If you’re looking to impress a date, this spot should do the trick. Be sure to check out the small plates portion of the menu, where you’ll find inventive dishes like a beer-battered, lobster and shrimp relleno! This restaurant is located at 288 Prairie Star Road on Santa Ana Pueblo.
5. Restaurant Martin (Santa Fe)
One of the best fine dining restaurants in Santa Fe, Restaurant Martin has a patio that is perfect for warm summer nights or a leisurely brunch. This eatery is located at 526 Galisteo Street in Santa Fe.
6. The Village Buttery (Ruidoso)
The patio here is more of a deck, but that works with the rustic vibe created by all the surrounding trees. The soups, sandwiches and quiches are all first rate, but the star of the show is Granny Guthrie's Buttermilk Pie (pictured alongside sticky pecan cheesecake). Head to 2107 Sudderth Drive in Ruidoso for an unforgettable dessert fix.
7. El Pinto (Albuquerque)
No article on perfect patios would be complete without a nod to El Pinto, one of New Mexico’s most scenic restaurants. During the summer months, you can listen to live music performed on the patio’s outdoor stage, while working your way through the 160 different tequilas available!
El Pinto is located at 10500 4th Street NW in Albuquerque.
8. YellowBrix (Carlsbad)
This cute little eatery is a popular lunch spot. It’s known for dishing up delectable sandwiches and tacos. Scoring a seat on the patio makes a wonderful experience complete. YellowBrix is located at 201 N Canal Street in Carlsbad.
9. Midtown Bistro (Santa Fe)
When you got to Midtown Bistro, you know you’ll receive locally sourced cuisine and attentive service. However, eating on the patio with a relaxing soundtrack from a fountain, makes fine dining that much more special. The restaurant is located at 901 W San Mateo Road in Santa Fe.
10. Pueblo Harvest (Albuquerque)
The views of the Sandia Mountains are marvelous from the patio at Pueblo Harvest. This restaurant specializes in Native American cuisine and there’s even a horno (traditional bread oven) on the patio. Pueblo Harvest is located at 2401 12th Street NW in Albuquerque.
11. Pizza Patio (Alamogordo)
Tuck in to pizza, pasta, or subs on this petite but adorable patio, which offers pretty views. Pictured is the mystic white pizza, a popular tomato-free option. Pizza Patio is located at 2203 1st Street in Alamogordo.
12. Indigo Crow (Corrales)
A massive tree dominates the corner of Indigo Crow’s patio, adding to the ambience and providing welcome shade in summer. Wow someone special with a dinner of filet mignon or lobster ravioli in this charming setting. The restaurant is located at 4515 Corrales Road in Corrales.
13. El Bruno's Restaurant Y Cantina (Cuba)
Chile fiends adore El Bruno because the restaurant gets its chile from Hatch and roasts it on-site. Perhaps that’s why El Bruno’s has been in business since 1975. Or maybe its success is due to a combination of fantastic food and a whimsical setting. This restaurant is located at 6453 Main 550 Street in Cuba.
Many New Mexican restaurants have pretty outdoor spaces and perhaps your favorite isn’t included on this list. If that’s the case, let us know why it provides such a great patio dining experience on the Only In New Mexico Facebook page .
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